AI-assisted analysis based on the official CRS summary. Source version: Apr 9, 2026. Analysis updated: Sep 19, 2026.
01 — The Text
What.
- Prohibits use of automated software applications to purchase event tickets in violation of sellers' posted purchasing rules or to circumvent access controls and security measures
- Requires online ticket sellers to establish and maintain reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect website security and data integrity
- Requires ticket sellers to report known circumvention incidents to the Federal Trade Commission and take reasonable steps to address them
- Establishes civil penalties for violations and authorizes the FTC to bring civil enforcement actions
- Directs federal, state, and local law enforcement to coordinate with the FTC regarding cyberattacks on ticket seller websites and services
02 — The Stakes
So what?
- The bill creates legal liability for bot-driven ticket purchases but does not specify penalty amounts or enforcement timelines
- Sellers must implement safeguards, but the standard of 'reasonable' safeguards is not defined in the summary and may require case-by-case determination
- The FTC gains authority to enforce these provisions, but the bill does not establish specific resources or a dedicated enforcement timeline
- Effectiveness depends on seller compliance and FTC capacity; the summary does not document projected impact on ticket availability or pricing
03 — The Path
Now what?
- Committee ordered bill to be reported (amended) on 2026-09-16 with 36-0 support
- Full committee markup held 2026-09-16; subcommittee markup held 2026-09-01
- Bill amended and forwarded from subcommittee to full committee by voice vote on 2026-09-01
- Introduced in House on 2025-04-08 and referred to House Energy and Commerce Committee
Legislative History
Actions.
- Sep 16, 2026 — Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by the Yeas and Nays: 36 - 0.
- Sep 16, 2026 — Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
- Sep 1, 2026 — Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended) by Voice Vote.
- Sep 1, 2026 — Subcommittee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
- Apr 8, 2025 — Referred to the Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade.
- Apr 8, 2025 — Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
- Apr 8, 2025 — Introduced in House